Water technology innovators from Nigeria and the United States have been recognised through The Water Council Tech Challenge for solutions aimed at improving access to safe drinking water and accelerating the identification of lead service lines.
Geotek Water Solutions, based in Jos, Nigeria, became the first African company to win the Tech Challenge, receiving the $10,000 grand prize. US-based Service ID, headquartered in Fitchburg, Wisconsin, was named runner-up and awarded $5,000.
The Tech Challenge is designed to connect emerging water technology providers with established industry players, helping accelerate the adoption of innovative solutions. The most recent challenge attracted more than 50 technology submissions from 23 countries, reflecting growing global interest in scalable water quality and infrastructure solutions.
Geotek Water Solutions’ winning technology uses low-enthalpy geothermal energy to treat water, reducing energy consumption by up to 65% compared with conventional treatment systems. The off-grid approach is designed to support resilient water infrastructure in emerging markets, where access to electricity and centralised treatment can be limited.
Service ID’s platform uses artificial intelligence to analyse photographs submitted by homeowners, allowing water utilities to identify lead service lines remotely. The system reduces the need for physical inspections, supporting utilities as they work to comply with lead and copper regulations and accelerate pipe replacement programmes.
“By issuing a broad call for solutions, we uncovered promising innovations for some of the most pressing water challenges today – improving access to clean water and identifying lead pipes for replacement,” said Katie Kollhoff Mouat, director of innovation programmes at The Water Council. “We are inspired by the potential for the winners and all the applicants to help provide clean, reliable freshwater to people around the world.”
The challenge topics and winners were selected by corporate sponsors including A. O. Smith Corporation, Badger Meter, Watts Water Technologies and Xylem. Participation in the programme gives sponsors early visibility into new technologies progressing through the water innovation pipeline.
